English · Word Candidate

raven

/ˈɹeɪvn̩/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: ravens · ravening · ravened

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Any of several, generally large, species of birds in the genus Corvus with lustrous black plumage; especially the common raven (Corvus corax).

Noun

Examples

Some ſay that Rauens foſter forlorne children, / The vvhilſt their ovvne birds famiſh in their neſts: / Oh be to me though thy hard hart ſay no, / Nothing ſo kinde but ſomething pittifull.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Any of several, generally large, species of birds in the genus Corvus with lustrous black plumage; especially the common raven (Corvus corax). — A jet-black, often glossy, colour, like that of the plumage of a raven (etymology 1, noun sense 1).

Noun

Examples

Near-synonyms: ebony, onyx

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Of the jet-black and often glossy colour of the plumage of a raven (etymology 1, noun sense 1).

Adjective

Examples

Near-synonyms: ebony, onyx

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

Alternative spelling of ravin. — To absorb or take in (something, such as information) greedily; also, to approach or pounce on (someone) like prey.

Verb

Examples

[S]he fenced them in their need / With iron-handed Duty's sternest creed, / 'Gainst Self's lean wolf that ravens word and deed.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “raven” mean?

Any of several, generally large, species of birds in the genus Corvus with lustrous black plumage; especially the common raven (Corvus corax).

Is “raven” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.